BBC Announces Original 'Being Human' Series to End

The current fifth season of the U.K. drama, which spawned Syfy's North American redo (currently in its third year), will be its last, the network announced Thursday. Creator and executive producer Toby Whithousepenned a lengthy letter confirming the news.

"Being Human really shouldn't have happened. A preposterous idea, an epic and circuitous development process, a modest budget -- no, we really shouldn't have lasted," he wrote. "But Being Human was the little show that could, and that ridiculous idea managed to last 37 episodes, spawn an American version, 3 novels, an online spin-off and garner a shelf of awards."

Whithouse addressed the fans of the supernatural series, which began with Aiden Turner, Russell Tovey and Lenora Crichlow. Currently Being Human stars Michael Socha, Damien Molony, Kate Bracken and Steven Robertson. "I know many of [the fans] will be disappointed that the show isn't returning, but all good things come to an end," he wrote. "We must remember too that the remit of BBC Three is to encourage and support new talent, to give them opportunities to make television, to test out new ideas and formats. In that sense Being Human is perhaps a victim of its success."

Whithouse hinted that the wrap-up may not be as neatly tied up as fans may want. "Consequently we've created what I hope you'll agree is an epic, thrilling and shocking finale that'll keep the fans guessing and speculating for years to come," he said.

BBC Three controller Zai Bennett said in the release announcing the final run: "Being Human has been a fantastic and faithful friend to BBC Three. It’s featured some truly exceptional actors and storylines through the years and I’d like to thank Toby and the production team for their vision and passion. However, all good things come to an end and at BBC Three we’re committed to breaking new shows and new talent and who better to pass that baton on than Toby."